The longtime police chief of the Sauk-Suiattle Tribe of Washington has been suspended following a change in tribal leadership.

Ernie DeCoteau, police chief for 19 years, was placed on administrative leave with pay on February 10. The move came after Gloria Green, a council member, took over as chairwoman of the tribe.

DeCoteau says he doesn't know why he was suspended. Green would only say that an investigation has been referred to the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

DeCoteau suspects family and tribal politics are to blame because he recently entered a home with a child service worker to follow up on a complaint. One of the teenage girls involved is reportedly related to Green. DeCoteau and the tribal council have differing views of the incident.

Get the Story:
New leader suspends chief (The Skagit Valley Herald 2/27)

Relevant Links:
Sauk-Suiattle Tribe - http://www.sauk-suiattle.com